The Truth About Sensitive Teeth & Dental Health

There are many reasons why you may have sensitive teeth. Decay on the tooth can be one of the main reasons your teeth are sensitive. Most frequently, dentists find that tooth sensitivity comes from dentin sensitivity from gum recession. At Mount Olive Family Dentistry, we use leading edge dental techniques to prevent tooth decay that can lead to tooth sensitivity. We’re the go to dentist for Mount Olive and Goldsboro locals.

How do you get sensitive teeth?

Starting in early adulthood, gum recession and the loss of cementum covering the dentin of the root surface of the tooth, leads to sensitive teeth. Dentin tubules provide a path to the pulp where the nerve of the tooth is located. Cold or other stimuli travel down these channels and stimulate the nerve of the tooth causing tooth sensitivity.

Gingivitis and plaque build up can also lead cause sensitivity. The overall health of your mouth and teeth can contribute to sensitive teeth.

How is tooth sensitivity treated?

On your own you can reduce tooth sensitivity by following good oral hygiene habits.  And over the counter toothpastes can solve the problem of sensitive teeth for many.  When seeing a dentist at Mount Olive Family Dentistry, you will get a diagnosis and a treatment when tooth pastes will not solve the problem of tooth sensitivity. For more information and to schedule an appointment please call (919) 658-9511.

When treating dentin sensitivity, dentists apply substances such as potassium ions which depolarizes the nerve. When the nerve is depolarized, the tooth doesn’t react to the stimuli. Applying other materials that block off the channels to the nerve and that seal the outside of the dentin tubules is another method of treating dentin sensitivity. Dentists often apply solutions of phosphate salts and calcium to teeth to reduce sensitivity further.

Regular fluoride treatments with your dentist can also keep tooth sensitivity at bay.

Posted on: 17 November, 2011